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Comfort is king
Whether you are making the most of your space depends on whether your clients and staff are happy – NOT some mathematical formula.
You might ask yourself: how many chairs can we cram into 1,000 sq ft? We could use a mathematical formula to calculate how many square feet equals a certain number of chairs or styling positions, and then calculate that each styling position equals a specific number of stylists and then, in turn, a fixed figure of revenue. But, when it comes down to it, all these calculations fail to take into account the emotional elements from the point of view of both the client and stylist.
When Virgin guru Richard Branson looked at the new Airbus A380 in 2005, he had the option of carrying up to 800 passengers only or 550 passengers with room for premium offerings that included double beds, a gymnasium and a casino for passengers to enjoy on long-haul flights. He knew his passengers would be happy to pay a premium price for such luxury extras, as they would be spending a lot of time in their chairs, but would want their experience to be as comfortable and pleasurable as possible.
Now, think about how comfortable your chairs are and how pleasurable the salon experience. Put yourself in the mind of the client and what they experience sitting in your seats. What do you feel and what can you see? Is there some material plugging the products? If not, there should be, as 80 per cent to 85 per cent of retail sales are made at the workstation! If you have stations near the windows, imagine you are client with a head full of foils – it’s not a very flattering look. Consider designing a more private environment where clients can sit peacefully, have their colour developed and feel more at ease. You could also incorporate colour aftercare messages, point of sale and merchandising in this area.
In terms of utilising the area to its best advantage, the biggest culprit of waste is the sofa. Unfortunately, the sofa does not create any revenue, but it does take up quite a bit of space. The same area could easily accommodate a well-stocked retail unit and, even better, if it can be placed in the window it’s talking directly to those passing by on the street as well.
So put the calculator down – it isn’t just about the maths and the space that we have but how effectively we use it. 
This article first featured in Business Builder, the monthly advice
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